Combine Results

Grade

4.70 SEC

12 REPS

34.0 INCH

116.0 INCH

6.71 SEC

3.97 SEC

11.28 SEC

Draft Analysis:

Bucky Brooks' take: Blanton is a long, rangy corner ideally suited for the Vikings' Tampa 2 scheme. He will fight for a spot in Minnesota's sub packages.

6'1" Height

31 1/4" Arm Length

208LBS. Weight

9 1/8" Hands

Overview

Blanton was a reliable, if not flashy, cornerback at Notre Dame. At this point, he could step in as a stopgap but has work to do before he can be a starter in the NFL. Blanton is a heady prospect who plays to his strengths. He understands footwork and technique in man-to-man coverage, but is not athletic enough to run freely with any receiver. He could be a backup as an outside corner or even in the nickel spot, and is worth a third-round pick.

Analysis

Strengths

Blanton can work in both man-to-man and zone coverage and provide support against the run. He has copious experience playing the nickel position in the slot and should be able to provide an NFL team with depth at that spot. He can recognize routes and jump on them quickly in zone coverage, and he can use his long arms to recover and make plays on the ball in man coverage. There are small inconsistencies in his technique, but he is able to use his size and length to make plays.

Weaknesses

Blanton has struggled with his backpedal and his technique at the top of routes, though he is able to recognize when he's off-line, stick his foot in the ground and redirect himself. He has a tendency to widen his feet and lose ground, which could prove costly at the next level. He also lacks the elite speed he would need to cover top-tier NFL receivers man-to-man.

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Grade

Title

Draft (Round)

Description

96-100

Future Hall of Famer

Top Pick

A once-in-a-generation type prospect who could change how his position is played

85-95

Immediate Starter

1st

An impact player with the ability/intangibles to become a Pro Bowl player. Expect to start immediately except in a unique situation (i.e. behind a veteran starter).

70-84

Eventual Starter

2nd-3rd

A quality player who will contribute to the team early on and is expected to develop into a starter. A reliable player who brings value to the position.

50-69

Draftable Player

4th-7th

A prospect with the ability to make team as a backup/role player. Needs to be a special teams contributor at applicable positions. Players in the high range of this category might have long-term potential.

20-49

Free Agent

UDFA

A player with solid measurables, intangibles, college achievements, or a developing skill that warrants an opportunity in an NFL camp. In the right situation, he could earn a place on a 53-man roster, but most likely will be a practice squad player or a camp body.